Md. Code, Health - General § 5–202

(a) An individual is dead if, based on ordinary standards of medical practice, the individual has sustained either:

(1) Irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory functions; or

(2) Irreversible cessation of all functions of the entire brain, including the brain stem.

(b) (1) This subsection does not apply to the removal of a vital organ while the individual is alive, if the individual gives informed consent to the removal.

(2) A pronouncement of death under this section shall be made before any vital organ is removed for transplantation.